As a former high school and college baseball pitcher, I enjoyed later in life my 11-years umpiring high school and college baseball. I truly did. I began umpiring in 1968 and and finished the gig working the Division II World Series in 1978. Unlike football and basketball officiating, the game of baseball has many more rules covering many more of the unusual plays and developments. Because of the unusual unexpected baseball action that can occur it becomes paramount that whether you're working a two-man crew or four-man crew when in doubt converse with your partner(s) and 'get it right;' get the umpire call correct!
I couldn't help but think of that umpire mind-set yesterday while watching the television coverage of the United States Senate hearing regarding the Supreme Court nomination of Brett Kavanaugh. Suffice to say, this confirmation process of Kavanaugh has been underscored by an ever widening division and animosity between our two political parties.
For several years now, I believe it's reasonable to state that political compromise has been absent while ugly mean-spirited rhetoric rules the day. Thanks to Republican Senator, Jeff Flake and Democrat Senator, Chris Coons this uncompromising attitude was 'put in time-out.'
The Democrats have been angry about President Obama's Supreme Court nominee not getting a vote two years ago as it was stymied by Republicans. Two years later and just before mid-term elections the GOP is trying to get this confirmation done. On the other hand the Democrats are attempting every stall tactic possible until after the elections as they bet on gaining control of Congress. Gamesmanship? Perhaps. Dirty politics? More likely. Whatever the case, we find the process in the midst of a nasty 'he said, she said,' hearing regarding alleged sexual transgressions by the nominee.
As the clock ticked down just minutes away from a vote to confirm, Senators Flake and Coons called time out and huddled for a discussion. A plea to delay they final confirmation vote for one week to allow more investigation into the accusations was granted. This is what a democracy looks like. Now no matter what the investigation may or may not reveal and no matter the subsequent confirmation vote-outcome, we can be proud that integrity of our system was polished and held high. Both parties and the American people should be thankful for compromising leadership seeking to 'Get It Right.'
Saturday, September 29, 2018
Friday, September 28, 2018
KISS Philosophy
Recently, a long time friend of mine and high school baseball/basketball teammate was doing research on leading basketball scorers in IHSA prep boys' history. When my friend discovered that I coached Andy Kaufmann, the number #2 IHSA all-time scorer behind #1 Charlie 'Chico' Vaughn whom I played against in college, my friend mused, "Mel you were fortunate to be a part of a special history connection." I was indeed. However, I couldn't stop Chico's shot and I did not teach Andy to shoot.
Vaughn's shot was impossible to defend. He started his shot with the ball above and slightly behind his head and would fade-away from the basket. He was deadly. Kaufmann was 6'5" and weighed 218lbs. and he possessed guard ball handling, passing and dribbling skills. A defender his size often had difficulty due to these skills. His size and strength was often a mismatch for defenders when he posted. He not only was an excellent shooter but his incredible knack for drawing fouls is evident by his all-time IHSA record for most career free throws with 912 points. Andy's total career points is 3,160.
Now for the blog title>>KISS That is an acronym for Keep It Simple Stupid, which most any coach would tell you that it's a reminder not to over coach your team. When a coach fails to keep things simple he runs a great risk of 'taking' players away from the games' 'natural flow' in which players can best demonstrate and apply their skills and abilities. I will give Andy's father kudos at this point. I once asked Mr. Kaufmann if he ever gave Andy shooting advice. His answer: "I just remind Andy that if his defender is NOT closely guarding him then SHOOT THE BALL and if the defender is guarding him too close, dribble around him and SHOOT. Talk about KISSS PHILOSOPHY!
Andy took that same KISS philosophy to the University of Illinois and today ranks #11, on the Orange & Blue men's scoring leaders.
Vaughn's shot was impossible to defend. He started his shot with the ball above and slightly behind his head and would fade-away from the basket. He was deadly. Kaufmann was 6'5" and weighed 218lbs. and he possessed guard ball handling, passing and dribbling skills. A defender his size often had difficulty due to these skills. His size and strength was often a mismatch for defenders when he posted. He not only was an excellent shooter but his incredible knack for drawing fouls is evident by his all-time IHSA record for most career free throws with 912 points. Andy's total career points is 3,160.
Now for the blog title>>KISS That is an acronym for Keep It Simple Stupid, which most any coach would tell you that it's a reminder not to over coach your team. When a coach fails to keep things simple he runs a great risk of 'taking' players away from the games' 'natural flow' in which players can best demonstrate and apply their skills and abilities. I will give Andy's father kudos at this point. I once asked Mr. Kaufmann if he ever gave Andy shooting advice. His answer: "I just remind Andy that if his defender is NOT closely guarding him then SHOOT THE BALL and if the defender is guarding him too close, dribble around him and SHOOT. Talk about KISSS PHILOSOPHY!
Andy took that same KISS philosophy to the University of Illinois and today ranks #11, on the Orange & Blue men's scoring leaders.
Thursday, September 27, 2018
A Missed Opportunity
Today's scheduled Senate Hearing on the alleged sexual transgressions brought by Christine Blasey Ford against Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh is sadly becoming a dud. Come on now, we Americans are better than this. Oh, I'm not talking about the pathetic nature of the issue. I mean there is a financial windfall being missed.
The issue (sex) and subsequent hearing event (old men talking about sex) is as hot a topic and as American as Apple pie, the Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Finals or the Soccer's World Cup. This is underscored by the excessive 24-hour cable news coverage, the President's obsession for tweeting and commenting about it and the explosive Facebook comment interaction. The evangelicals have not had as much to be excited about since Trump's announcement to the world about his appetite for female crotch-grabbing. You all recall that. First Lady Melania called it "boys locker room talk." I suppose boys getting young girls drunk and lining up to take turns in non-consensual sex is 'boys just being boys.'
This hearing should be given its dues. The hearing should be treated as a Super Bowl event. The hearing should be held in the 49,000 seat Carrier Dome on the campus at Syracuse University. Just think of the ticket prices. We could have Trumpian crazies seated on one side of the arena and liberal loonies on the opposite side. We would have scantly dressed cheerleaders for senators to ogle when there is a lull in the proceedings.
There should be weeks of hype. T-shirts should be sold with all kinds of clever sayings. Americans could host 'Sexual Harassment Parties.' The event would be televised with clever commercials aired i.e. The Super Bowl so we can once again talk about how cute puppies and Clydesdale's are together.
Once upon a time, Romans threw the Christians to the Lions and this hearing reeks with similarities. If ever our National Anthem should precede an sick event IT IS AT THIS HEARING.
The issue (sex) and subsequent hearing event (old men talking about sex) is as hot a topic and as American as Apple pie, the Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Finals or the Soccer's World Cup. This is underscored by the excessive 24-hour cable news coverage, the President's obsession for tweeting and commenting about it and the explosive Facebook comment interaction. The evangelicals have not had as much to be excited about since Trump's announcement to the world about his appetite for female crotch-grabbing. You all recall that. First Lady Melania called it "boys locker room talk." I suppose boys getting young girls drunk and lining up to take turns in non-consensual sex is 'boys just being boys.'
This hearing should be given its dues. The hearing should be treated as a Super Bowl event. The hearing should be held in the 49,000 seat Carrier Dome on the campus at Syracuse University. Just think of the ticket prices. We could have Trumpian crazies seated on one side of the arena and liberal loonies on the opposite side. We would have scantly dressed cheerleaders for senators to ogle when there is a lull in the proceedings.
There should be weeks of hype. T-shirts should be sold with all kinds of clever sayings. Americans could host 'Sexual Harassment Parties.' The event would be televised with clever commercials aired i.e. The Super Bowl so we can once again talk about how cute puppies and Clydesdale's are together.
Once upon a time, Romans threw the Christians to the Lions and this hearing reeks with similarities. If ever our National Anthem should precede an sick event IT IS AT THIS HEARING.
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
Shallow Time Can Occur in the Morning.
While in the nearby coffee shop sipping on my beverage and reading the morning newspaper, I was subjected to louder than usual chit-chat from two gentlemen of my generation wearing not very good hearing aids. Their range of topics was a extensive and the their problem solving abilities unprecedented.
I discovered the following: Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh is a victim of "Those crazy women caught up in that damn 'me too movement' just looking for a moment of fame." "People outta
Just let Trump alone to do his job." "These damn tariffs are killing farmers." " All those damn black football players kneeling when the National Anthem is played need to have a real job." (Note: I worked in factories and in education all my life and never was I required to stand for the playing of the National Anthem at the start of the work day).
One fella had to weigh-in on Tiger Woods: "I see where that Tiger Woods finally won a golf tournament. He'll probably start chasing a bunch of white gals and fade again." And this comment, "I don't know why the schools shortened the school day a few weeks when the weather was hot. Don't all them buildings have air conditioning?" "While Hell, back in the day we never called off school for any kinda weather."
One gent had to leave because some fella Bow Hunting deer on his farm property got hurt and the wife said he'd better get on hone. After leaving the remaining fella looked my way and spoke, "Are you retire?" I stood up quickly and answered, "Yes, but I gotta hit the road, I'm late for an appointment with my psychiatrist, better go." I don't know why I said that but I did!
And the Beat Goes On!
I discovered the following: Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh is a victim of "Those crazy women caught up in that damn 'me too movement' just looking for a moment of fame." "People outta
Just let Trump alone to do his job." "These damn tariffs are killing farmers." " All those damn black football players kneeling when the National Anthem is played need to have a real job." (Note: I worked in factories and in education all my life and never was I required to stand for the playing of the National Anthem at the start of the work day).
One fella had to weigh-in on Tiger Woods: "I see where that Tiger Woods finally won a golf tournament. He'll probably start chasing a bunch of white gals and fade again." And this comment, "I don't know why the schools shortened the school day a few weeks when the weather was hot. Don't all them buildings have air conditioning?" "While Hell, back in the day we never called off school for any kinda weather."
One gent had to leave because some fella Bow Hunting deer on his farm property got hurt and the wife said he'd better get on hone. After leaving the remaining fella looked my way and spoke, "Are you retire?" I stood up quickly and answered, "Yes, but I gotta hit the road, I'm late for an appointment with my psychiatrist, better go." I don't know why I said that but I did!
And the Beat Goes On!
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
Not a Simple Call
May I preference this day's rant with the following: I view censorship with great caution and trepidation. I believe a truly 'free' society flourishes on individual freedoms of expressions and rights of consumption. Therein lies the critical need of a democracy's lifeline tethered to its free press...that fourth estate...the profession of journalism.
This nation has struggled greatly over the decades attempting to legislate consumption as the government flirts with establishing standards of behavior expectation; an approach doomed from the start. That government must figure out what behavior protects those individual rights of 'life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" so long as one individuals searching of such rights doesn't hinder another's pursuit. When that occurs, we had to make laws.
It has not been so much of an attack on our rights that has impacted our nation changing behavior as much as those undefined behaviors that every society and culture establishes resulting from the group's collective attitudes of what is best for the order. Perhaps simply stated as that which is in good tastes. Those 'things' are defined as our folkways and mores. It is here that people attempt to extend the current limits of performance. They seek to push beyond the accepted boundaries.
It has become far too easy and incorrect to point fingers of blame for our changing morals due to the movie industry or contemporary music claiming its unfiltered productions. This nation has always depended upon three major societal institutions for a checks and balance of accepted behavior:
(1) The Home (Family), The Schools (Teachers) and (3) The Church. No one institution is to blame for failure but all share in our morality decline and we have declined.
Acknowledging the possibility to overgeneralize with simplistic answers and solutions, may I touch on a few observations. The family structure continues to break down as parents turned away from significant discipline choosing to soften things with the 'friendly time out.' Many parents confused their role as they choose to be their child's friend rather than parent. The school has acquiesced to the parents' discipline style fearing lack of administrative support. This became a cocktail for a compromised learning environment, which led to academic dumbing-down and social promotion. The third institution, The Church can only survive if its value is embraced by the family while children are in those formative adolescent years.
In our society bigger and more is embraced as being better. It is noble for parents to wish to 'give a good life' to their children but they can run the risk of creating an enabling life for the child. I recall when senior high school trips were to Washington D.C or New York. Today, we must send the senior class to Aruba. I remember when the bachelor party was a one night affair of goofy and borderline stupid behavior; today it must be a weekend drunk. As is the bride and her wedding maids.
Let's be honest, the pendulum never swings all the way back...be aware.
This nation has struggled greatly over the decades attempting to legislate consumption as the government flirts with establishing standards of behavior expectation; an approach doomed from the start. That government must figure out what behavior protects those individual rights of 'life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" so long as one individuals searching of such rights doesn't hinder another's pursuit. When that occurs, we had to make laws.
It has not been so much of an attack on our rights that has impacted our nation changing behavior as much as those undefined behaviors that every society and culture establishes resulting from the group's collective attitudes of what is best for the order. Perhaps simply stated as that which is in good tastes. Those 'things' are defined as our folkways and mores. It is here that people attempt to extend the current limits of performance. They seek to push beyond the accepted boundaries.
It has become far too easy and incorrect to point fingers of blame for our changing morals due to the movie industry or contemporary music claiming its unfiltered productions. This nation has always depended upon three major societal institutions for a checks and balance of accepted behavior:
(1) The Home (Family), The Schools (Teachers) and (3) The Church. No one institution is to blame for failure but all share in our morality decline and we have declined.
Acknowledging the possibility to overgeneralize with simplistic answers and solutions, may I touch on a few observations. The family structure continues to break down as parents turned away from significant discipline choosing to soften things with the 'friendly time out.' Many parents confused their role as they choose to be their child's friend rather than parent. The school has acquiesced to the parents' discipline style fearing lack of administrative support. This became a cocktail for a compromised learning environment, which led to academic dumbing-down and social promotion. The third institution, The Church can only survive if its value is embraced by the family while children are in those formative adolescent years.
In our society bigger and more is embraced as being better. It is noble for parents to wish to 'give a good life' to their children but they can run the risk of creating an enabling life for the child. I recall when senior high school trips were to Washington D.C or New York. Today, we must send the senior class to Aruba. I remember when the bachelor party was a one night affair of goofy and borderline stupid behavior; today it must be a weekend drunk. As is the bride and her wedding maids.
Let's be honest, the pendulum never swings all the way back...be aware.
Monday, September 24, 2018
Another Dog & Pony Show
Shall we not get our dander-up and quibble over our obvious pre-predisposed political attitudes and thereby agree that this scheduled 'hearing' before a United States senate committee this Thursday has zero credibility? There is suspicious behavior coming from both Democrats and Republicans as a woman brings forth accusation of a thirty-year old sexual asault alegedly committed by an individual nominated for and awaiting confirmation to the United States Supreme Court.
The Republican Party is in a power position to easily confirm a conservative judge who will likely be the 'swing-vote' to finally overturn their long time cry for overturning Roe v. Wade and put the skids to legal abortion. The Trump supporters also like the philosophy of this judge because he can argue that a President should be left alone while in office and not subject to investigation into any possible wrong-doings. If you cannot grasp that appeal to Trump, well you've evidently been in a coma.
The Democrats not only wish to 'stall' this confirmation as they hope for a swing of political clout coming their way after the November 2018, mid-term elections but they are still in a get-even angry mood over the GOP's sandbagging Obama's Supreme Court nomination back in March 2016.
You ask, "'Mel, what's your point? Where's the dog & pony show?" Okay, take those blinders off, NOW. If there is any kind of injustice claimed by you or your neighbor is it not reasonable to interview anybody and everybody who MAY have witnessed or have pertinent information about the alleged action of injustice as the attempt is made to resolve the Question?? If there is no appetite for this approach, then we should not have an elaborate display or presentation, which insults the intelligence of those who have a degree of intelligence. We have professional wrestling for such.
The Republican Party is in a power position to easily confirm a conservative judge who will likely be the 'swing-vote' to finally overturn their long time cry for overturning Roe v. Wade and put the skids to legal abortion. The Trump supporters also like the philosophy of this judge because he can argue that a President should be left alone while in office and not subject to investigation into any possible wrong-doings. If you cannot grasp that appeal to Trump, well you've evidently been in a coma.
The Democrats not only wish to 'stall' this confirmation as they hope for a swing of political clout coming their way after the November 2018, mid-term elections but they are still in a get-even angry mood over the GOP's sandbagging Obama's Supreme Court nomination back in March 2016.
You ask, "'Mel, what's your point? Where's the dog & pony show?" Okay, take those blinders off, NOW. If there is any kind of injustice claimed by you or your neighbor is it not reasonable to interview anybody and everybody who MAY have witnessed or have pertinent information about the alleged action of injustice as the attempt is made to resolve the Question?? If there is no appetite for this approach, then we should not have an elaborate display or presentation, which insults the intelligence of those who have a degree of intelligence. We have professional wrestling for such.
Friday, September 21, 2018
Times Change and Nothing Is Certain
A few days ago, I was leaving our home for a meeting when my wife yelled to me from another room, "Be sure you lock the door when you leave and make sure you have a house key because I'm going to bible class and won't be home."
House key?
A few weeks ago, I read reports listing the ten most dangerous 'neighborhoods' in America. Now put your head around that...we're talking NEIGHBORHOODS. The third most dangerous, crime infested neighborhood in America is my 'old East St. Louis neighborhood,' Caseyville Avenue. Folks, this writer NEVER, I repeat, NEVER had a house key because in my 1950's East St. Louis neighborhood we did NOT LOCK OUR HOMES. Today, across America people lock homes, carry guns and hope they are not slaughtered while watching music concerts in the local community park.
I often feel sad that my grandchildren will never know the social serenity of my youth. Listen, I'm not one of those old timers who pontificate about the 'good old days.' To the contrary, I believe today on most fronts far outdistances the old days, especially in the realm of technology, which has advanced medicine to untold benefits for mankind. However, I notice that even some medical advice takes 'U-Turns' much like my weatherman the day after the six inch surprise snow accumulation.
Just this past week the medical professionals told us that low dose aspirin benefits, long a part of millions' daily medical regiment holds greater risks than benefits; so much for St. Joseph's Baby Aspirin Stock Market value. According to recent scientific reports, the 980 established medical practices over a ten year period have had 146 -reversals. This entire wish-washy advice makes me think of my Aunt Kate. When she was 89, she became irritated with all the medicines doctors had prescribed for her so she threw every pill bottle in her medicine cabinet away. I'm not sure it was a wise decision because she died a short ten years later just a couple months shy of her 100th birthday.
(Touch)
Confusing
House key?
A few weeks ago, I read reports listing the ten most dangerous 'neighborhoods' in America. Now put your head around that...we're talking NEIGHBORHOODS. The third most dangerous, crime infested neighborhood in America is my 'old East St. Louis neighborhood,' Caseyville Avenue. Folks, this writer NEVER, I repeat, NEVER had a house key because in my 1950's East St. Louis neighborhood we did NOT LOCK OUR HOMES. Today, across America people lock homes, carry guns and hope they are not slaughtered while watching music concerts in the local community park.
I often feel sad that my grandchildren will never know the social serenity of my youth. Listen, I'm not one of those old timers who pontificate about the 'good old days.' To the contrary, I believe today on most fronts far outdistances the old days, especially in the realm of technology, which has advanced medicine to untold benefits for mankind. However, I notice that even some medical advice takes 'U-Turns' much like my weatherman the day after the six inch surprise snow accumulation.
Just this past week the medical professionals told us that low dose aspirin benefits, long a part of millions' daily medical regiment holds greater risks than benefits; so much for St. Joseph's Baby Aspirin Stock Market value. According to recent scientific reports, the 980 established medical practices over a ten year period have had 146 -reversals. This entire wish-washy advice makes me think of my Aunt Kate. When she was 89, she became irritated with all the medicines doctors had prescribed for her so she threw every pill bottle in her medicine cabinet away. I'm not sure it was a wise decision because she died a short ten years later just a couple months shy of her 100th birthday.
(Touch)
Confusing
Thursday, September 20, 2018
There IS, I Said THERE IS A DIFFERENCE...
Recently, I pointed out to a friend that his claims of Barrack Obama's Columbia University student ID card, which showed that 'student Obama' was born in Kenya was NOT AUTHENTIC. Upon researching three different credible websites all three sources spoke to the question with factual indicators that the Columbia University Obama student ID card was bogus...a forgery...a fake!
I stated that correction as a response to my friend's erroneous comment and his response was, "That's my opinion." In other words, his opinion trumps (no pun intended) any and all facts.
Folks...Welcome to our 21st Century public debate guidelines. Or shall I say, Welcome to America's Twilight Zone? A place where facts are no longer facts but can be wrong if one's 'opinion' differs from a fact.
BUT why should we be surprised at the casual dismissal of factual evidence these days? President Trump openly admits that he has NOT read the classified Russian documents that he wants de-classified. How ignorant and how dangerous this man!
Today in America...Fact is no longer absolute. Truth is no longer absolute. America is no longer that
"City upon a shining hill" of which former President Ronald Reagan often spoke.
I stated that correction as a response to my friend's erroneous comment and his response was, "That's my opinion." In other words, his opinion trumps (no pun intended) any and all facts.
Folks...Welcome to our 21st Century public debate guidelines. Or shall I say, Welcome to America's Twilight Zone? A place where facts are no longer facts but can be wrong if one's 'opinion' differs from a fact.
BUT why should we be surprised at the casual dismissal of factual evidence these days? President Trump openly admits that he has NOT read the classified Russian documents that he wants de-classified. How ignorant and how dangerous this man!
Today in America...Fact is no longer absolute. Truth is no longer absolute. America is no longer that
"City upon a shining hill" of which former President Ronald Reagan often spoke.
Wednesday, September 19, 2018
I Believe I Have It Figured Out
Before penning my daily blogs, I often carry thoughts about something a day or so and then express those thoughts in a blog. Other times those musings are more spontaneous. Today's sharing has hung in my mind for nearly three weeks as I have wrestled with hesitation. The reluctance stems from fear of being misunderstood or sounding too melancholy. This dilemma is unusual for me because most of my writings are to express my feelings not appease my readers' feelings. I'd be a fool attempting to 'please' you who read. It would be presumptuous on my part to think I know what pleases you. That's why the zoo offers different animals. Believe it or not but some folks love the reptile house.
Okay, here goes. Nearly three weeks ago, I held my newborn great grandson. As I looked into his angelic face for the first time I had a rush of random thoughts. As Mammy Bennett would have said, "It made my head swim." First I thought how magnificent the God who continues to bless my family. Then I thought how marvelous is 'life's longing for itself.' Finally, I thought of grandpa E.V. Bennett and my own father and how each processed this very stage of an old man's life, which I embrace these days.
Grandpa E.V. loved his grandkids and he was a fun grandpa to be near. When my mother (E.V.'s daughter) gave birth to my brother, Marty, E.V. was nearing the age seventy-four. I was unaware of the fact that weeks had passed and E.V., who lived but a few blocks away had not been to our house to 'see' his new grandson. His daughter was crushed. She telephoned her father and said in a tearful voice, "Dad, my baby boy is almost three weeks old and you haven't been down to see him." E.V. spoke in a tone of deep sincerity saying. "Lucille, I'm an old man who simply can't begin a relationship with a baby." Grandpa died about two and a half years later.
My own father had a major heart attack at age fifty-four and nearly died a couple of times. He was the most trusting and faithful medical patient a cardiologist could imagine. He lived another 21-years after that catastrophic heart attack and it was obvious to family members that he mentally and emotionally fought to meet the next event: a grandchild's wedding, a family gathering or a special celebration. He loved people, he loved this life and he fought to stay in this sharing journey.
Those were my thoughts that Sunday past when I held grandson Ryelan Mitchell. On my drive back to Decatur, I had other thoughts: Gee, next month grandson Caleb marries Morgan and they asked me to speak at the ceremony in which great granddaughter, Juniper will participate. In January, Gerry and I will meet our friends in Florida for two months. When we return next the spring, I get to see grandson, Jamie pitch for his college baseball team before returning to Florida in July with ALL the family for a week long vacation. In the meantime, I need to get off my butt and finish my responsibilities coordinating this 49th Annual Prep Thanksgiving Boys Basketball Tournament for the Decatur Public School District.
Whew! Glad I got that all in a perspective. You know, I'll be 84-years old when I teach great grandson, Ryelan how to grip a baseball bat and 'track' the ball. The boy has to be a switch-hitter but throw right-handed. Like Satchel once said, "Don't look back, something might be gaining on you."
Okay, here goes. Nearly three weeks ago, I held my newborn great grandson. As I looked into his angelic face for the first time I had a rush of random thoughts. As Mammy Bennett would have said, "It made my head swim." First I thought how magnificent the God who continues to bless my family. Then I thought how marvelous is 'life's longing for itself.' Finally, I thought of grandpa E.V. Bennett and my own father and how each processed this very stage of an old man's life, which I embrace these days.
Grandpa E.V. loved his grandkids and he was a fun grandpa to be near. When my mother (E.V.'s daughter) gave birth to my brother, Marty, E.V. was nearing the age seventy-four. I was unaware of the fact that weeks had passed and E.V., who lived but a few blocks away had not been to our house to 'see' his new grandson. His daughter was crushed. She telephoned her father and said in a tearful voice, "Dad, my baby boy is almost three weeks old and you haven't been down to see him." E.V. spoke in a tone of deep sincerity saying. "Lucille, I'm an old man who simply can't begin a relationship with a baby." Grandpa died about two and a half years later.
My own father had a major heart attack at age fifty-four and nearly died a couple of times. He was the most trusting and faithful medical patient a cardiologist could imagine. He lived another 21-years after that catastrophic heart attack and it was obvious to family members that he mentally and emotionally fought to meet the next event: a grandchild's wedding, a family gathering or a special celebration. He loved people, he loved this life and he fought to stay in this sharing journey.
Those were my thoughts that Sunday past when I held grandson Ryelan Mitchell. On my drive back to Decatur, I had other thoughts: Gee, next month grandson Caleb marries Morgan and they asked me to speak at the ceremony in which great granddaughter, Juniper will participate. In January, Gerry and I will meet our friends in Florida for two months. When we return next the spring, I get to see grandson, Jamie pitch for his college baseball team before returning to Florida in July with ALL the family for a week long vacation. In the meantime, I need to get off my butt and finish my responsibilities coordinating this 49th Annual Prep Thanksgiving Boys Basketball Tournament for the Decatur Public School District.
Whew! Glad I got that all in a perspective. You know, I'll be 84-years old when I teach great grandson, Ryelan how to grip a baseball bat and 'track' the ball. The boy has to be a switch-hitter but throw right-handed. Like Satchel once said, "Don't look back, something might be gaining on you."
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Our Primrose Lane
The past weekend was a good one, a very good one. On Saturday, my wife, Gerry and I hooked up with my brother, Tom and sister in-law Vicky for lunch and a nice visit. With long journey's in our respective rear view mirrors and similar youth experiences, we never run short of conversational topics.
Later that day, we traveled a few miles South of brother's Glen Carbon home to Fairview Heights where we met childhood friends Dick and Fran Pawlow for the occasion of Gerry and Fran's 60th St. Teresa high school Class Reunion. Gerry and Fran (Shimkus) Pawlow grew up in the same East St. Louis neighborhood and attended elementary and high school together. Dick and I played baseball against one another in youth leagues and high school but joined efforts on East St. Louis' Post 53 American Legion Baseball Teams.
Similar to Tom and Vicky's chats, the Roustio's and Pawlow's never beg for conversation. Even though, we attended different city high schools, my wife and I dated all through those years so consequently, we each knew the others high school classmates and friends. As the case with every journey, we miss those who have passed but recall them with great love and fondness. Those with whom we re-unite brings back wonderful stories and precious memories.
As I watched my wife of fifty-eight years move about her school mates of yesteryear and observed her engaging and most sincere personality laced with animated motions, I recalled just why I fell in love with the petite little, Geraldine Bischof.
The next morning (Sunday), Gerry and I were the luncheon guests of son, Steve and daughter in-law, Kathy along with granddaughter, Loren. It was a birthday celebration for my wife and the location was indeed special. We dined at 'Das Bevo' on Gravois Avenue, St. Louis, which is a historical restaurant built over 100-years ago by August A. Bush, Sr. Fifty-nine years ago, the establishment was simply Bevo Mill, the 1959-site where I gave my girlfriend, Gerry an engagement ring and proposed.
This past Sunday, we recalled that night when I had slipped the ring into Gerry's water glass and she nearly gulped it down before realizing what was in the water.
(Touch)
Primrose Lane
Later that day, we traveled a few miles South of brother's Glen Carbon home to Fairview Heights where we met childhood friends Dick and Fran Pawlow for the occasion of Gerry and Fran's 60th St. Teresa high school Class Reunion. Gerry and Fran (Shimkus) Pawlow grew up in the same East St. Louis neighborhood and attended elementary and high school together. Dick and I played baseball against one another in youth leagues and high school but joined efforts on East St. Louis' Post 53 American Legion Baseball Teams.
Similar to Tom and Vicky's chats, the Roustio's and Pawlow's never beg for conversation. Even though, we attended different city high schools, my wife and I dated all through those years so consequently, we each knew the others high school classmates and friends. As the case with every journey, we miss those who have passed but recall them with great love and fondness. Those with whom we re-unite brings back wonderful stories and precious memories.
As I watched my wife of fifty-eight years move about her school mates of yesteryear and observed her engaging and most sincere personality laced with animated motions, I recalled just why I fell in love with the petite little, Geraldine Bischof.
The next morning (Sunday), Gerry and I were the luncheon guests of son, Steve and daughter in-law, Kathy along with granddaughter, Loren. It was a birthday celebration for my wife and the location was indeed special. We dined at 'Das Bevo' on Gravois Avenue, St. Louis, which is a historical restaurant built over 100-years ago by August A. Bush, Sr. Fifty-nine years ago, the establishment was simply Bevo Mill, the 1959-site where I gave my girlfriend, Gerry an engagement ring and proposed.
This past Sunday, we recalled that night when I had slipped the ring into Gerry's water glass and she nearly gulped it down before realizing what was in the water.
(Touch)
Primrose Lane
Monday, September 17, 2018
Sorry Folks!
When I was an adolescent, I found myself always trying to please my parents. I don't recall my parents worrying about pleasing ME. My parents were never unkind to me but in fact gave strong indications that they loved me...but I never sensed they worshiped me nor did I sense they felt extreme responsibility for my daily joy and happiness.
In many ways, I think my adult children are better parents than was I but that said, I see every indication that my two daughters and daughter in-law really bust their tails trying to bring joy and happiness to my fifteen grandkids at every turn. Case in point>>My eldest daughter, Dawn and her husband Shawn have seven children. At one time or another all seven kids have been to Disney World (Orlando, FL.) some obviously more than once. How do I know this? My daughter confirmed that she has been to a Disney World 22-times.
That family of seven live perhaps six miles from one of the largest pumpkin farms in the Midwest...Goebbert's Farm & Garden Center, South Barrington, Illinois. Aside from the zillions of various size pumpkin displays, there is a petty zoo, Camel tides, Giraffes, endless mazes and spook houses. Plus more than a couple of eateries. I will never ask 'how many' visits that family has made to Goebbert's over the past 28-years.
The oldest oldest granddaughter in that family just gave birth to our third grandchild 'Ryelan Scott Mitchell.' The baby is four weeks old and obviously needed to make his in inaugural Pumpkin Farm visit. Last Friday, my daughter, Ryelan's grandmother, GiGi made plans for the momentous maiden mission. She even took her seven year old daughter out of school so the young auntie could witness the spectacular event.
The SUV carload arrived early and surprisingly got a parking spot 'up front.' As the granny, mother, newborn and second-grader bounded from the vehicle and ran toward the entrance...they stopped suddenly in their tracks at a barricade holding a notice bulletin: Goebbert's Pumpkin Farm season begins tomorrow, Saturday, September 15, 2018.
(Touch)
Sorry Folks!
In many ways, I think my adult children are better parents than was I but that said, I see every indication that my two daughters and daughter in-law really bust their tails trying to bring joy and happiness to my fifteen grandkids at every turn. Case in point>>My eldest daughter, Dawn and her husband Shawn have seven children. At one time or another all seven kids have been to Disney World (Orlando, FL.) some obviously more than once. How do I know this? My daughter confirmed that she has been to a Disney World 22-times.
That family of seven live perhaps six miles from one of the largest pumpkin farms in the Midwest...Goebbert's Farm & Garden Center, South Barrington, Illinois. Aside from the zillions of various size pumpkin displays, there is a petty zoo, Camel tides, Giraffes, endless mazes and spook houses. Plus more than a couple of eateries. I will never ask 'how many' visits that family has made to Goebbert's over the past 28-years.
The oldest oldest granddaughter in that family just gave birth to our third grandchild 'Ryelan Scott Mitchell.' The baby is four weeks old and obviously needed to make his in inaugural Pumpkin Farm visit. Last Friday, my daughter, Ryelan's grandmother, GiGi made plans for the momentous maiden mission. She even took her seven year old daughter out of school so the young auntie could witness the spectacular event.
The SUV carload arrived early and surprisingly got a parking spot 'up front.' As the granny, mother, newborn and second-grader bounded from the vehicle and ran toward the entrance...they stopped suddenly in their tracks at a barricade holding a notice bulletin: Goebbert's Pumpkin Farm season begins tomorrow, Saturday, September 15, 2018.
(Touch)
Sorry Folks!
Friday, September 14, 2018
More of This and Less of That!
Random thoughts 'more or less'....
I'll just bet you readers are like me; some things you could take MORE of and there are other things of which you could take LESS. For the example: I'd like to have that 'sticky' fly-paper we once hung from the ceiling that attracted bugs. The flies would get stuck on the paper. Even though they suffered a slow agonizing demise, I did not have to hear that annoying 'zapping' sound from those modern electric bug zappers.
I'd rather have newspaper photos of the aftermath damages of a hurricane and a tornado rather than watch some television news-reporter standing in hip-high water while a 100mph storm surging rainy wind challenges their ability to hold a microphone with one hand and a traffic sign with the other hand. The wind causes distorted facial structure and the eyebrows are pushed back to the ear lobes while broken detached metal signs fly by the face. From what I can hear, I believe they're telling me the conditions are dangerous.
I like my modern automobile navigation system that can take me from one end of the country to the other with little concern that my pitiful sense of directions will come into play compromising my travel enjoyment. However, I'd like that auto to have whitewall tires and fender-skirts...'cool ride.' I'd like to see soda cans and plastic bottles go away and see the return of pop bottles, which held a return -deposit value.
Today, I must endure 10-minutes of television commercials during a thirty minute show and 36% of commercial time during an hour T.V. Show. All these cable channels are costing me too much. I wish I had the option of three channels with fewer commercials on a television 'set' sporting an antenna at the cost of electricity. More is NOT better but it is More costly.
I'll just bet you readers are like me; some things you could take MORE of and there are other things of which you could take LESS. For the example: I'd like to have that 'sticky' fly-paper we once hung from the ceiling that attracted bugs. The flies would get stuck on the paper. Even though they suffered a slow agonizing demise, I did not have to hear that annoying 'zapping' sound from those modern electric bug zappers.
I'd rather have newspaper photos of the aftermath damages of a hurricane and a tornado rather than watch some television news-reporter standing in hip-high water while a 100mph storm surging rainy wind challenges their ability to hold a microphone with one hand and a traffic sign with the other hand. The wind causes distorted facial structure and the eyebrows are pushed back to the ear lobes while broken detached metal signs fly by the face. From what I can hear, I believe they're telling me the conditions are dangerous.
I like my modern automobile navigation system that can take me from one end of the country to the other with little concern that my pitiful sense of directions will come into play compromising my travel enjoyment. However, I'd like that auto to have whitewall tires and fender-skirts...'cool ride.' I'd like to see soda cans and plastic bottles go away and see the return of pop bottles, which held a return -deposit value.
Today, I must endure 10-minutes of television commercials during a thirty minute show and 36% of commercial time during an hour T.V. Show. All these cable channels are costing me too much. I wish I had the option of three channels with fewer commercials on a television 'set' sporting an antenna at the cost of electricity. More is NOT better but it is More costly.
Thursday, September 13, 2018
Whose Job Is It?
Recently a Georgia Charter School, grades kindergarten through 9th re-instated paddling a student on the butt with a wooden paddle as a form of discipline. The superintendent stated that their school takes discipline seriously. The school's administration sent 100 paddling-consent forms home to parents and approximately one/third 'gave' approval to spanking their child. The process requires the administrator to telephone the parents before the paddling. I suppose that's called a 'consent-renege.'
I have always seen myself as a disciplinarian and one who believes a paddling on the behind under certain conditions could be appropriate. That said, I don't believe it's okay for anybody except a parent to 'spank' a child. The problem is> parents don't like to spank their 'friends.'
Make no mistake that the disciplined child is a rare child in 21st century American schools. I've seen classrooms in recent years and teacher-control of the environment is suspect in the majority. The learning environment is greatly compromised. Many parents are so weak at their responsibilities they expect the institution (educators) to be disciplinarians with parameters.
Let's be honest about this schooling situation. Today's parenting expectation of public schools is 'womb-to-room.' We start little children at age four in pre-school, on to kindergarten and the 12-year traditional education. Parents want the school bus to pick the child up at the end of the driveway, have a before school breakfast, after school programs and bring junior or Missy back to the driveway. Oh, my goodness, do not call off school for anything because I'll need to scramble for a babysitter.
Third grader, Mel got a swat at school and then three at home because I got the one at school. At the beginning of every elementary school year, my father told me to pay attention to the teachers and "Don't do anything that would cause me to miss work and come to the school." When I started playing sport the directive sounded the same theme, "Boy, teammates don't like a 'goldbrick' and I won't tolerate a poor sport; don't embarrass your team, coach or family unless you don't want to play."
When I got a bit rambunctious as a very young boy, my dad would often look me in the eyes and say,
"Hey boy, straighten up and fly right!"
My teachers and coaches did not have to teach or coach my attitude...Dad took on that responsibility.
(Touch)
Straighten Up, Boy!
I have always seen myself as a disciplinarian and one who believes a paddling on the behind under certain conditions could be appropriate. That said, I don't believe it's okay for anybody except a parent to 'spank' a child. The problem is> parents don't like to spank their 'friends.'
Make no mistake that the disciplined child is a rare child in 21st century American schools. I've seen classrooms in recent years and teacher-control of the environment is suspect in the majority. The learning environment is greatly compromised. Many parents are so weak at their responsibilities they expect the institution (educators) to be disciplinarians with parameters.
Let's be honest about this schooling situation. Today's parenting expectation of public schools is 'womb-to-room.' We start little children at age four in pre-school, on to kindergarten and the 12-year traditional education. Parents want the school bus to pick the child up at the end of the driveway, have a before school breakfast, after school programs and bring junior or Missy back to the driveway. Oh, my goodness, do not call off school for anything because I'll need to scramble for a babysitter.
Third grader, Mel got a swat at school and then three at home because I got the one at school. At the beginning of every elementary school year, my father told me to pay attention to the teachers and "Don't do anything that would cause me to miss work and come to the school." When I started playing sport the directive sounded the same theme, "Boy, teammates don't like a 'goldbrick' and I won't tolerate a poor sport; don't embarrass your team, coach or family unless you don't want to play."
When I got a bit rambunctious as a very young boy, my dad would often look me in the eyes and say,
"Hey boy, straighten up and fly right!"
My teachers and coaches did not have to teach or coach my attitude...Dad took on that responsibility.
(Touch)
Straighten Up, Boy!
Tuesday, September 11, 2018
Nana's Astute Observation and Wise Advice
My wife was thirteen and I fourteen when that 'puppy love' infatuation began. We subsequently dated until age 20 & 21, before marrying. In hindsight, I can honestly report that we both had terrific relationships with 'in-laws.' How vital are these relationships? Critical if true joy and pleasure is to be in married couple's journey.
I once read some sociological study that suggested various factors that helped or hindered a marriage. For example there is seemingly the obvious: Best chance for marital success is when the oldest children of families marry; a much poorer marital risk is youngest marrying youngest....I said, obvious.
One factor, I recall missing from the study findings that which was seized upon by my girlfriend and (later) wife. Let me tell you by paraphrasing my wife's words in a recent granddaughter conversation, with a granddaughter, which I overheard:
Granddaughter: Nana (Gerry) you had a great relationship with Boompa's (Mel) mother, Mamaw.
Nana: I did indeed, I loved her dearly.
Granddaughter: How did that happen?
Nana: When I dated your Boompa, I noticed the wonderful relationship he had with his mother and it impressed me and made me feel good about the boy I was dating. As I was around your Boompa's mother, I come to realize that she nurtured her son with love that came back to her. That parent-child relationship was a sealed deal long before our courtship. I thought why would I be jealous of that relationship? Boompa's mom and dad did for him what My mom and dad did for me. I could never duplicate my mother in-laws love for her son and my love-relationship with their son was something beyond their relationship and abilities. I was a partner with my husband's mother and father to love a man they brought forth from their special love.
Here is my 'take.'
You know, my wife was denied pursuing her education beyond high school due to the sudden death of her father during her senior prep year. That untimely death placed a profound financial burden on her mother and younger brother. My wife could not embrace the nursing career she envisioned but felt that she must enter the work force to make a fractured family's life a little easier. Although she lacked that extended formal education, I have championed her over the years as one of the wisest people I've known. Predicated on the relationship she has with her daughters and granddaughters who constantly seek her opinions and thoughts, I believe that I'm not alone in my perception of her wisdom.
I once read some sociological study that suggested various factors that helped or hindered a marriage. For example there is seemingly the obvious: Best chance for marital success is when the oldest children of families marry; a much poorer marital risk is youngest marrying youngest....I said, obvious.
One factor, I recall missing from the study findings that which was seized upon by my girlfriend and (later) wife. Let me tell you by paraphrasing my wife's words in a recent granddaughter conversation, with a granddaughter, which I overheard:
Granddaughter: Nana (Gerry) you had a great relationship with Boompa's (Mel) mother, Mamaw.
Nana: I did indeed, I loved her dearly.
Granddaughter: How did that happen?
Nana: When I dated your Boompa, I noticed the wonderful relationship he had with his mother and it impressed me and made me feel good about the boy I was dating. As I was around your Boompa's mother, I come to realize that she nurtured her son with love that came back to her. That parent-child relationship was a sealed deal long before our courtship. I thought why would I be jealous of that relationship? Boompa's mom and dad did for him what My mom and dad did for me. I could never duplicate my mother in-laws love for her son and my love-relationship with their son was something beyond their relationship and abilities. I was a partner with my husband's mother and father to love a man they brought forth from their special love.
Here is my 'take.'
You know, my wife was denied pursuing her education beyond high school due to the sudden death of her father during her senior prep year. That untimely death placed a profound financial burden on her mother and younger brother. My wife could not embrace the nursing career she envisioned but felt that she must enter the work force to make a fractured family's life a little easier. Although she lacked that extended formal education, I have championed her over the years as one of the wisest people I've known. Predicated on the relationship she has with her daughters and granddaughters who constantly seek her opinions and thoughts, I believe that I'm not alone in my perception of her wisdom.
Monday, September 10, 2018
Who Are The True Patriots?
All the debate about NFL players protesting as some players kneel during the National Anthem is pure folly. Protesting is a vital part of America's fabric. Let me say, unequivocally that those who protest in our nation are not unpatriotic. Perhaps those who wish to 'silence' protesters are the unpatriotic Americans. Oh, I am sure right at this moment some mental-thinking giants out there want to tell me something under the dumb heading, 'America: Love It or Leave it.' Well, I'm not about to do that anymore than those who supported the many wonderful character-building blocks of our democracy who protested at other critical times in America's history.
If you read history books instead of chewing on the covers, you'll recall reading about the 1770's protests called the American Revolution and the 1930's Labor Movement protests that gave your skilled and unskilled family laborers fair practices in the workplace. Your grandmothers and mothers of yesterday and your wife and daughters today enjoy equality rights and voting rights because of women protesters.
Slavery was abolished due to the protest movements in the mid-1800's. Of course, more protesters were required to end the horrible un-American practice of segregation and secure blacks' the right to vote with those much needed peaceful non-violent protests in 1955 and the late 1960's.
If a reader does not understand that protest is the backbone of our democracy they lack a fundamental knowledge of freedoms as the inalienable rights.
The aforementioned gives legs to the need for more protest, which will make our nation stronger and maintain its moral authority. I truly believe that law officers, preachers, priests, school teachers and other professionals are wonderful callings. For the most part those professionals are of the highest character and dignity. That said, those professions have bad people in their ranks. When those bad people do bad things protesters need to 'call it out!!' If the issues are addressed, a nation stands taller and good people in noble callings are protected and honored.
We need to stop the ugly dialogue and 'weed the garden.' That's all the protesters are protesting. It's not about a people honoring the flag it's about a nation honoring its creed as symbolized by that flag.
"Although poles apart ideological, they are both unashamed of their patriotism."
...Christopher Hemphill
If you read history books instead of chewing on the covers, you'll recall reading about the 1770's protests called the American Revolution and the 1930's Labor Movement protests that gave your skilled and unskilled family laborers fair practices in the workplace. Your grandmothers and mothers of yesterday and your wife and daughters today enjoy equality rights and voting rights because of women protesters.
Slavery was abolished due to the protest movements in the mid-1800's. Of course, more protesters were required to end the horrible un-American practice of segregation and secure blacks' the right to vote with those much needed peaceful non-violent protests in 1955 and the late 1960's.
If a reader does not understand that protest is the backbone of our democracy they lack a fundamental knowledge of freedoms as the inalienable rights.
The aforementioned gives legs to the need for more protest, which will make our nation stronger and maintain its moral authority. I truly believe that law officers, preachers, priests, school teachers and other professionals are wonderful callings. For the most part those professionals are of the highest character and dignity. That said, those professions have bad people in their ranks. When those bad people do bad things protesters need to 'call it out!!' If the issues are addressed, a nation stands taller and good people in noble callings are protected and honored.
We need to stop the ugly dialogue and 'weed the garden.' That's all the protesters are protesting. It's not about a people honoring the flag it's about a nation honoring its creed as symbolized by that flag.
"Although poles apart ideological, they are both unashamed of their patriotism."
...Christopher Hemphill
Sunday, September 9, 2018
A Dose Of Their Own Logic
In 37-varsity basketball coaching years, I can tell you that it happened only twice but it underscored that which I knew existed having grown up in the 1940's and 1950's segregated period. One time while coaching in Edwardsville (1970-77) and another time coaching in Jacksonville (1977-1998), my home telephone rang and a quick comment was made and the caller hung up. The comment, "Roustio, you're a n#*ger-lover."
Frustrating for me? Sure! Just as it was frustrating when my athletic director at Edwardsville would come to my basketball practice to tell me how that he had a telephone call from a school board member that wanted him to check and see if "Roustio's black players were at practice." This was to suggest that I played black players who didn't even come to practice. On another occasion, the Edwardsville high school principal wondered into practice one afternoon and I could tell he was very angry. When I questioned him, he said, "A school board member just telephoned my office and asked me to look in one of your player's school locker because the board member was told the player's locker held drugs inside." (The player happened to be a minority). I asked the principal if he intended to examine the player's locker. The principal said, "I told the board member that we had 1,827 students and if he wanted to look in one student's locker for drugs, he would have to accompany me looking in the other 1,826 students' lockers." Those cowardly anonymous ambushes came from unhappy racists parents wishing to stir the pot by casting these disparaging racial comments. Why? Because their kid was not getting the playing time they'd anticipated.
Please re-examine these aforementioned bigoted accusations. Surely, you note the subliminal racist messages: 'Roustio's minority ball players are too lazy to attend practice and those minority players have illegal drugs in their school lockers.' We need to do something about "THOSE PEOPLE."
Make no mistake that some African Americans also play the race card to stir the same crap. I can recall late in my Jacksonville coaching tenure there was a strong cry from local African Americans for investigation into the minority extra-curricular participation percentages in Jacksonville high school suggesting there was unfair treatment of minorities. That meeting disclosed that 40% of the Crimsons' basketball teams during my tenure was blacks...that percentage in a community that was only 7% African-American and a high school where less than 120 black students comprised the 1150 student enrollment.
Over the years, I have grown weary observing the same old racist games. People want food stamp recipients to be drug tested. Okay drug them and then drug test farmers who get federal subsides also. Drug test food process workers who package our foods we eat. Drug test auto workers whose work has a safety factor in our lives. Drug test athletes, police, the military, the politicians, preachers and priests...why NOT?!
Folks the only way some things die is exposure to the light of day.
Frustrating for me? Sure! Just as it was frustrating when my athletic director at Edwardsville would come to my basketball practice to tell me how that he had a telephone call from a school board member that wanted him to check and see if "Roustio's black players were at practice." This was to suggest that I played black players who didn't even come to practice. On another occasion, the Edwardsville high school principal wondered into practice one afternoon and I could tell he was very angry. When I questioned him, he said, "A school board member just telephoned my office and asked me to look in one of your player's school locker because the board member was told the player's locker held drugs inside." (The player happened to be a minority). I asked the principal if he intended to examine the player's locker. The principal said, "I told the board member that we had 1,827 students and if he wanted to look in one student's locker for drugs, he would have to accompany me looking in the other 1,826 students' lockers." Those cowardly anonymous ambushes came from unhappy racists parents wishing to stir the pot by casting these disparaging racial comments. Why? Because their kid was not getting the playing time they'd anticipated.
Please re-examine these aforementioned bigoted accusations. Surely, you note the subliminal racist messages: 'Roustio's minority ball players are too lazy to attend practice and those minority players have illegal drugs in their school lockers.' We need to do something about "THOSE PEOPLE."
Make no mistake that some African Americans also play the race card to stir the same crap. I can recall late in my Jacksonville coaching tenure there was a strong cry from local African Americans for investigation into the minority extra-curricular participation percentages in Jacksonville high school suggesting there was unfair treatment of minorities. That meeting disclosed that 40% of the Crimsons' basketball teams during my tenure was blacks...that percentage in a community that was only 7% African-American and a high school where less than 120 black students comprised the 1150 student enrollment.
Over the years, I have grown weary observing the same old racist games. People want food stamp recipients to be drug tested. Okay drug them and then drug test farmers who get federal subsides also. Drug test food process workers who package our foods we eat. Drug test auto workers whose work has a safety factor in our lives. Drug test athletes, police, the military, the politicians, preachers and priests...why NOT?!
Folks the only way some things die is exposure to the light of day.
Saturday, September 8, 2018
This One Has Some Leg Life
Please, may I preface today's comments by acknowledging that I personally view each new day as a huge blessing. That said, yesterday (Friday) was a blessing but not without a significant faux pas; a couple of embarrassing acts that my wife witnessed, which are sure to come back as reminders at my expense. How do I know this? When the shoe is on the other foot, I get great mileage at her expense.
First, I had a breakfast speaking engagement that I thought was scheduled for 7:00AM. I arrived at 6:50AM and was told by the Decatur Club doorman that the breakfast meeting was slated for 7:30AM. Later that morning, I had another meeting at 11:00AM and drove across the city only to discover I had forgotten critical papers needed for the meeting. Back at the house to retrieve papers, my wife asked, "Do you know if you're coming or going, today?"
After lunch with my wife, I had to meet a clothing representative to approve apparel design and embroidery styles. These are items for the 49th Annual Decatur Thanksgiving boys basketball tournament that I coordinate for the Decatur Public School District. I could not find my reading glasses as I prepared to leave the house. I looked at my desk. I checked the kitchen area. Frustrated for fear of my meeting tardiness, I went to the garage and checked under the front seats of the auto...no luck. While I was looking in my places, my wife had been searching the upstairs. She appeared at the landing near the garage where I was reentering. She looked at me with a smirky-smile and said, you're wearing your glasses, dummy."
I really don't get upset when proven wrong or goofy, except when it's pointed out by my wife.
First, I had a breakfast speaking engagement that I thought was scheduled for 7:00AM. I arrived at 6:50AM and was told by the Decatur Club doorman that the breakfast meeting was slated for 7:30AM. Later that morning, I had another meeting at 11:00AM and drove across the city only to discover I had forgotten critical papers needed for the meeting. Back at the house to retrieve papers, my wife asked, "Do you know if you're coming or going, today?"
After lunch with my wife, I had to meet a clothing representative to approve apparel design and embroidery styles. These are items for the 49th Annual Decatur Thanksgiving boys basketball tournament that I coordinate for the Decatur Public School District. I could not find my reading glasses as I prepared to leave the house. I looked at my desk. I checked the kitchen area. Frustrated for fear of my meeting tardiness, I went to the garage and checked under the front seats of the auto...no luck. While I was looking in my places, my wife had been searching the upstairs. She appeared at the landing near the garage where I was reentering. She looked at me with a smirky-smile and said, you're wearing your glasses, dummy."
I really don't get upset when proven wrong or goofy, except when it's pointed out by my wife.
Friday, September 7, 2018
Wish or Will?
I sit at this desk; I stand in that line,
I wait for the light change, I bide my time.
While waiting I imagine, I stare into space,
I dream of greatness in a far off place.
We differ you and I it would seem,
Only common in that which we dream.
Intent upon my wish, I fail to understand,
I could 'will' it to be, 'tis at my command.
Conditioned through mounting years,
I tend to wish and hide behind my fears.
Can I negotiate life's hurdles and reach my dreams,
Determined and confident my 'will' be my theme.
Before my hourglass be emptied and time no more a frill,
I must put aside my 'wish' and make the dream my 'will.'
'MoJa'
'04
Thursday, September 6, 2018
What's The Question?
One would have to be in (isolated) confinement not to know that our President is in a full all-out attack mode against the media. One would be stupid not to observe our President's love for media exposure. The man absolutely thrives on media coverage.
This ongoing Trump-media saga causes me to think about my own far less intense media relationship as a sport participant and a long time high school coach. My East St. Louis sport participation days were widely documented by the media. Newspapers, i.e., the East St. Louis Journal along with St. Louis papers: The Globe-Democrat and Post Dispatch covered the greater St. Louis area prep teams extensively. For the large part those scribes were friendly in interviews and kind with their words. The same could be said about sports writers at the Bloomington Pantagraph, which covered my Illinois State action.
It was when I became 'the coach' of teams that the questioning language from sports' writers was presented differently and thus called for a much different and more calculated response. My three years as the Mason City high school coach, my teams were covered by the State Journal Register (Springfield), the Pekin Times and Peoria Journal Star. The following three years, I was covered by the Pekin and Peoria papers. My seven year stint in Edwardsville reconnected me with the familiar St. Louis Area media. Finally, the long 21-year tenure in Jacksonville re-united me with the State Journal Register and introduced me to the Jacksonville Journal Courier and the local radio stations of WLDS and WJVO.
Early in my coach-media experience, I learned a very significant lesson. Pre-season, pre-game, post game and any other time the media contacts you for 'a story' know in your heart that the sport scribe already has a good idea for the story' he wishes to pen. That does not make scribes bad people but if you as the interviewed don't seize the moment to redirect the story as you prefer it to read then it makes YOU vulnerable. I never viewed the media as my enemy but potentially a tool or vehicle to promote my team, my program or myself. I shared with writers my logic and reasoning before and after contests. They had a job to do as did I.
Later, I became a part of the media hosting a weekly radio show for nineteen years and a daily radio program for four years. The IHSA tabbed me to do the large school State Finals as television game-analyst. I have been fortunate and blessed in many relationships and I count the media folks in those numbers.
This ongoing Trump-media saga causes me to think about my own far less intense media relationship as a sport participant and a long time high school coach. My East St. Louis sport participation days were widely documented by the media. Newspapers, i.e., the East St. Louis Journal along with St. Louis papers: The Globe-Democrat and Post Dispatch covered the greater St. Louis area prep teams extensively. For the large part those scribes were friendly in interviews and kind with their words. The same could be said about sports writers at the Bloomington Pantagraph, which covered my Illinois State action.
It was when I became 'the coach' of teams that the questioning language from sports' writers was presented differently and thus called for a much different and more calculated response. My three years as the Mason City high school coach, my teams were covered by the State Journal Register (Springfield), the Pekin Times and Peoria Journal Star. The following three years, I was covered by the Pekin and Peoria papers. My seven year stint in Edwardsville reconnected me with the familiar St. Louis Area media. Finally, the long 21-year tenure in Jacksonville re-united me with the State Journal Register and introduced me to the Jacksonville Journal Courier and the local radio stations of WLDS and WJVO.
Early in my coach-media experience, I learned a very significant lesson. Pre-season, pre-game, post game and any other time the media contacts you for 'a story' know in your heart that the sport scribe already has a good idea for the story' he wishes to pen. That does not make scribes bad people but if you as the interviewed don't seize the moment to redirect the story as you prefer it to read then it makes YOU vulnerable. I never viewed the media as my enemy but potentially a tool or vehicle to promote my team, my program or myself. I shared with writers my logic and reasoning before and after contests. They had a job to do as did I.
Later, I became a part of the media hosting a weekly radio show for nineteen years and a daily radio program for four years. The IHSA tabbed me to do the large school State Finals as television game-analyst. I have been fortunate and blessed in many relationships and I count the media folks in those numbers.
Wednesday, September 5, 2018
From Subtle to Coarse; Who We've Become
I have never thought of myself as a bluenose, moralist prude but I do find myself head-scratching at times concerning our cultural mores journey. Our conventional mores and customs, which tend to bind our society's behavior in some degree of expectation has changed slowly but in hindsight drastically.
Consider if you please the changes in socially accepted behavior over the past 78-years. I recall in the mid-forties, my maternal grandmother, Mammy Bennett would weigh-in with her adult daughters regarding women wearing 'slacks.' Mammy thought slacks were not lady-like apparel. Fast-forward to the year 1968 and I heard my mother speak with disdain about the then popular mini-skirt. Mother Lucille thought that high-thigh skirt was too revealing.
In these more recent years, my wife and I exchange bewildered looks when television promos for the Victoria Secrets Lingerie Show, indeed 'show' much of the female models' anatomy. Some television underwear ads border on the suggestive ridiculousness.
I believe it is safe to say, our American culture has "Come a long way baby," as the Virginia Slim cigarette ad, which targeted women of 1968 boasted. We must acknowledge that even our very young can no longer enjoy those years of youthful innocence; that ship has sailed!
Consider if you please the changes in socially accepted behavior over the past 78-years. I recall in the mid-forties, my maternal grandmother, Mammy Bennett would weigh-in with her adult daughters regarding women wearing 'slacks.' Mammy thought slacks were not lady-like apparel. Fast-forward to the year 1968 and I heard my mother speak with disdain about the then popular mini-skirt. Mother Lucille thought that high-thigh skirt was too revealing.
In these more recent years, my wife and I exchange bewildered looks when television promos for the Victoria Secrets Lingerie Show, indeed 'show' much of the female models' anatomy. Some television underwear ads border on the suggestive ridiculousness.
I believe it is safe to say, our American culture has "Come a long way baby," as the Virginia Slim cigarette ad, which targeted women of 1968 boasted. We must acknowledge that even our very young can no longer enjoy those years of youthful innocence; that ship has sailed!
Tuesday, September 4, 2018
Let's Be Honest Old Man!
I have noticed a communication issue between adult children and their aging parents...just a fact of life I suppose. Way back in the day, if a medical doctor concluded some life ending health issue with the oldster, he (doctor) shared the bad news with the adult children and left it to the younger generation to 'share' whatever with mom or dad. Times are much different these days. Driving the more straightforward, 'tell it like it is' communication between medical doctors and patients is the patient rights law and potential lawsuits.
Obviously, nobody gets out of this picture-show alive. That said, it's much easier to have those life ending conversations with the elderly rather than with the parents of a minor child or young person in the prime of life.
I'm not a fool, although some who read my daily blog may hold a different opinion. I recall those years when I worried about my aging parents health issues and perhaps their demise. My wife and I have always been attentive to those realities. We kept the highways burning under our autos spending as much time as possible with parents and other family members. We are so happy we did because neither my wife nor I have any of those 'woulda-coulda-shoulda thoughts!
I wish for my children and grandchildren to relax and enjoy each day without worry about mom and dad; Nana and Boompa. I raise this issue on the heels of a recent telephone conversation with my son. My son asked if I thought I could 'see' my grandson, Jamie pitch some baseball games for his college team NEXT spring. I said, "Send me a FALL schedule." There was a long pause. Then my son spoke, "We worry dad, you're not fifty, you know?" I said, "I know...better send me his fall baseball schedule."
Obviously, nobody gets out of this picture-show alive. That said, it's much easier to have those life ending conversations with the elderly rather than with the parents of a minor child or young person in the prime of life.
I'm not a fool, although some who read my daily blog may hold a different opinion. I recall those years when I worried about my aging parents health issues and perhaps their demise. My wife and I have always been attentive to those realities. We kept the highways burning under our autos spending as much time as possible with parents and other family members. We are so happy we did because neither my wife nor I have any of those 'woulda-coulda-shoulda thoughts!
I wish for my children and grandchildren to relax and enjoy each day without worry about mom and dad; Nana and Boompa. I raise this issue on the heels of a recent telephone conversation with my son. My son asked if I thought I could 'see' my grandson, Jamie pitch some baseball games for his college team NEXT spring. I said, "Send me a FALL schedule." There was a long pause. Then my son spoke, "We worry dad, you're not fifty, you know?" I said, "I know...better send me his fall baseball schedule."
Monday, September 3, 2018
Labor Days of Old
Labor Day in East St. Louis back in my youth was perhaps the third most family-celebrated and significant holiday embraced by the river city residents. Consider please the fact that East St. Louisans were by the largest of numbers blue collar union people.
My family members and neighbors were proud and yes, boastful about their skills and work ethic. These most recent years, I hear many younger people brag about 'how much they get paid at their jobs for the little work they have to do.' That attitude would be foreign to my parents' generation; a generation, which championed the slogan: "If a job's worth doing it's worth doing well."
The East St. Louis Labor Day (without question) marked the end of summer because all city schools both public and private began school the Tuesday after Labor Day. The Labor Day parade had much to behold. Thousands of union men and women representing every trade union under the sun lined up near downtown East St. Louis and marched alongside all types of heavy duty machinery, decorated flatbed trucks and floats. Hundreds of kids riding decorated bicycles peddled alongside parade walkers while young and old darted from curb-side viewing spots to grab candies and other items tossed to onlookers.
As the parade disbanded at Jones' Park @ Baseball Diamond # 1, you noted thousands of people scurrying about to stake out their all-day picnic spot. Many families and neighbors played their favorite yard games while others found the swimming pool and young sweethearts staked out Lagoon side benches under the inviting Willow Tree shade. The aroma of meats swirling into the air from open-pit fires was a memorable staple of the day.
It was a celebration that only gave way to the setting sun and the stark realization that the coming morning workers must 'clock-in' and school children must respond to that bell signaling class time.
I hope your Labor Day is enjoyed with friends and family with God's blessings.
PS. I'd sure like to go back and simply walk those old East St. Louis trails around Jones Park but I'll pass. That particular area of my hometown is one of the most crime-dangerous areas in America. I'll find a shady spot this afternoon in my backyard, close my eyes and reminisce.
(Touch)
Lazy Days of Summer
My family members and neighbors were proud and yes, boastful about their skills and work ethic. These most recent years, I hear many younger people brag about 'how much they get paid at their jobs for the little work they have to do.' That attitude would be foreign to my parents' generation; a generation, which championed the slogan: "If a job's worth doing it's worth doing well."
The East St. Louis Labor Day (without question) marked the end of summer because all city schools both public and private began school the Tuesday after Labor Day. The Labor Day parade had much to behold. Thousands of union men and women representing every trade union under the sun lined up near downtown East St. Louis and marched alongside all types of heavy duty machinery, decorated flatbed trucks and floats. Hundreds of kids riding decorated bicycles peddled alongside parade walkers while young and old darted from curb-side viewing spots to grab candies and other items tossed to onlookers.
As the parade disbanded at Jones' Park @ Baseball Diamond # 1, you noted thousands of people scurrying about to stake out their all-day picnic spot. Many families and neighbors played their favorite yard games while others found the swimming pool and young sweethearts staked out Lagoon side benches under the inviting Willow Tree shade. The aroma of meats swirling into the air from open-pit fires was a memorable staple of the day.
It was a celebration that only gave way to the setting sun and the stark realization that the coming morning workers must 'clock-in' and school children must respond to that bell signaling class time.
I hope your Labor Day is enjoyed with friends and family with God's blessings.
PS. I'd sure like to go back and simply walk those old East St. Louis trails around Jones Park but I'll pass. That particular area of my hometown is one of the most crime-dangerous areas in America. I'll find a shady spot this afternoon in my backyard, close my eyes and reminisce.
(Touch)
Lazy Days of Summer
Sunday, September 2, 2018
Determination In The McCain Bloodline
My wife and I watched a good bit of Senator John McCain's Memorial Service. I enjoyed hearing the remembrances of McCain from his family and many political contemporaries, i.e. Joe Lieberman, George W. Bush and Barrack Obama. I shall not take personal liberties in this blog with any comparisons regarding Presidents of yesteryear and the current version today...that would be too easy, 'Like shooting fish in a barrel.'
Actually, one of the comments that stuck with me above all came from a television commentator at the event and not from any principal speaker. Let me set it up, if I may: John McCain's mother is 106 years old and in attendance at her son's memorial. A television commentator related a story about the elder McCain recalling a time she visited Paris, France when she was ninety years old. It seems that Mother McCain tried to rent a automobile at a rental agency but was denied because they told her, "You are too old to rent a vehicle." She left without a confrontation and went to a auto dealership and purchased an automobile, using it for the duration of her Paris trip. Perhaps Senator John, the war hero got some of that stubborn determination trait from his mother as much as the military family men before him.
Actually, one of the comments that stuck with me above all came from a television commentator at the event and not from any principal speaker. Let me set it up, if I may: John McCain's mother is 106 years old and in attendance at her son's memorial. A television commentator related a story about the elder McCain recalling a time she visited Paris, France when she was ninety years old. It seems that Mother McCain tried to rent a automobile at a rental agency but was denied because they told her, "You are too old to rent a vehicle." She left without a confrontation and went to a auto dealership and purchased an automobile, using it for the duration of her Paris trip. Perhaps Senator John, the war hero got some of that stubborn determination trait from his mother as much as the military family men before him.
Saturday, September 1, 2018
Cardinals Being Investigated by MLB?
I suppose it was inevitable. The baseballCardinals were terrible during the first half of their season. Things began to make a180 degree turn as first baseman Matt Carpenter went on a hitting rampage. Carpenter, tongue-in-check attributes his 'homemade salsa' as the reason for the turn-about.
My neighborhood friend, who happens to be a diehard Cubs' baseball fan telephoned me at midnight last evening. Needless to mention, I was sleeping soundly. He said, "I won't keep you because I know it's a bit late but I wanted to tell you that I just hear a report of the MLB Sirius channel that Major League Baseball is investigating your Cardinals for PES...(pause) THAT WOULD BE PERFORMANCE ENHANCING SALSA!
I got up at 5:30AM today and painted his backyard (wooden) swing 'BRIGHT RED.'' I doubt that this 'thing' is over.
My neighborhood friend, who happens to be a diehard Cubs' baseball fan telephoned me at midnight last evening. Needless to mention, I was sleeping soundly. He said, "I won't keep you because I know it's a bit late but I wanted to tell you that I just hear a report of the MLB Sirius channel that Major League Baseball is investigating your Cardinals for PES...(pause) THAT WOULD BE PERFORMANCE ENHANCING SALSA!
I got up at 5:30AM today and painted his backyard (wooden) swing 'BRIGHT RED.'' I doubt that this 'thing' is over.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)